Putting A Better Spin On Dinnertime

About Me

I love to cook for my family, but a few months ago I realized we had gotten into a serious rut. I was basically rotating between five common dishes, and it was getting really boring. I thought about the problem and realized that I might be able to spruce things up by learning a little more about cooking. My friend is a chef, and so I asked her to teach me some really tasty, yet simple, dishes that I could whip up in a snap. It was so helpful. This blog is about learning more about cooking, so that you aren't left wondering what to make for dinner.

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Is A Mexican Restaurant O.K. For A Vegetarian Date?

If you're not a vegetarian, but are dating one, than it can be tricky to pick a restaurant. There are lots of places where the menu doesn't offer any vegetarian friendly entrees. This will make the evening awkward.

Other places might only have one meal that is vegetarian friendly. You could always ask the restaurant to make something special, but that is oftentimes a hassle. Sometimes they won't accommodate you. It's easier to go somewhere that has several options for people who are vegetarians.

Think Mexico!

Mexican food is one of the most popular cuisines around. If you are looking for a great place to take a vegetarian date, then a Mexican restaurant is a perfect place.

Notice the distinction between restaurant and fast food. No one is suggesting you take your date to a fast food place. Rather, you should look at the authentic Mexican restaurants in your area. They will often have multiple meals that are vegetarian friendly.

What Makes Mexican Food So Vegetarian Friendly?

Mexican food is perfect for vegetarians because rice and beans are the staple foods of Mexico. Many dishes are prepared with only rice, beans, vegetables and sauces. Meat is certainly a popular ingredient, but for many rural and poor people, meat is a luxury. Because of that, Mexican cuisine has a rich menu that features many non-meat items.

If you only look at Mexican fast food restaurants, then you will have a limited idea of the cuisine. These places tend to feature dishes that are heavy with beef and chicken. An authentic restaurant will have a much more diverse menu that will include meals that would never be offered in a fast food restaurant.

What Are Some Typical Vegetarian Dishes?

Many restaurants will have black bean burritos, as well as cheese quesadillas, but if you are looking for something more unusual, then here are some dishes you might see on the menu:

Caldo De Queso (Cheese Soup)

This is a cheese soup that originates in the Mexican state of Sonora. It is made with hot peppers, cheese, potatoes, onions and tomatoes.

Tortilla Soup

This is a very popular in Mexico. It is made with a spicy adobo sauce. It's texture is most reminiscent of a classic tomato stew. The tortillas are added at the end to keep them crunchy. Some places will also add shredded chicken. Make sure to ask if there is chicken in the recipe. If the cook adds the shredded chicken at the end, ask that it be kept out.

Tlayuda ( Mexican Pizza)

This is a great dish from the Oaxaca region. It is made by spreading re-fried beans, avocado, chopped tomato, and cheese to the top of a baked tortilla.